Thursday Evening

We are back from a day in Bufula. I'll try to update before I get kicked out of the business center! Actually, the woman who runs it has me sit in HER chair every day now and has shown me how to log everyone in as they come in. I think I may stay here - I have a job!

Our visit began with a tour of the premises! Bufula has some beautiful gardens and they were anxious to show them off. We traipsed through a lot of crops getting to the back of their property. On the way we got to see their mushroom crop - located inside a small building built just for that purpose. We also saw lots of coffee trees, passion fruit vines, and the piggery. At the back of the property, they are having a latrine built. Two men were digging a hole 15 feet long and maybe 2 feet wide. One guy stayed at the top and hoisted dirt to the top with a rope and bucket. Much to my surprise, there was another guy AT THE BOTTOM digging the dirt out. Can't even tell you how claustrophic that would make MOST people. The trench was only as wide as the guy's shoulders and it was 30 feet deep at the time. They will dig until it's 40 feet down! We all took a peek - but not without someone holding onto their hand.

We had a short program of school and church reports, as well as music provided by the kids. Their voices are just so beautiful!

Pastor Tim and Pastor Jay were thrilled to be in the village that Hope Lutheran in Lubbock, Texas is partnering with. They got to meet with all 49 kids that are currently being sponsored while we made mirrors with the women. Pat and Chuck entertained the kids - back-breaking work for sure!

We had lunch that included matooke, rice, beef, chicken, cabbage, and pinto beans with casaba. The beans were a nice treat - something different. After that we were entertained by a travelling group who sing and put on skits about HIV/AIDS prevention. Of course we got to hold lots of kids while that was going on. We left around 4:30 and are now back at the Sunset Hotel, getting ready for dinner.

Back to Bufula for awhile tomorrow, as well as a short visit to Mufibira. Everyone seems to be sleeping fairly well and feeling good. Thanks for the continued prayers!